Dogs

Dog Breeds

There are over 400 different recognized dog breeds worldwide. Founded in 1884, the American Kennel Club (AKC) recognizes 164 different breeds (as of February 2010). In 2009, the AKC implemented the Mixed Breed Program which allows dogs of mixed breeds to compete in certain events including obedience, agility, and rally events.

Dog breeds are broken down into groups which can vary depending upon the club. In Britain, dog breeds are placed in one of six groups - Hounds, Gundogs, Terriers, Utility, Working, and Toy. The American Kennel Club places the different breeds into one of eight different groups - Sporting, Hound, Working, Terrier, Toy, Non-Sporting, Herding, and Miscellaneous Class. Dog breeds placed into the Miscellaneous Class are limited to the competitions in which they can enter and they do not qualify for championship points.

Dog breed: Greenland dog

by Danie Russell

A little knowledge for you on the Greenland dog breed, also known as the Gronlandshunden. ("The Greenland's dog" Danish). This dogs country of origin is Greenland (Denmark) and is currently recognized by the UKC for the FCI breed standards. This dog... More>

Best breeds of dogs for runners

by Jerica Collins

For someone who likes to run you must choose the right breed of dog. There are many active breeds, but there are also many who would not be suitable to go for long runs with someone. Mixed breed dogs also make fantastic running companions depending ... More>

Why the Labrador Retriever is the most popular dog in the USA

by Shelly Purucker

Labrador Retrievers are not only intelligent, fiercely loyal and worthy of bonding with more than just one person, they are dedicated to leadership skills which let training become a joy for the owner...More>
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Why the Beagle is a popular dog in the USA

by Rena Sherwood

When the Beagle Uno won Best in Show at Westminster in February of 2008, many Americans were surprised to hear that he was the only Beagle to do so. This is because Beagles have been incredibly popula...More>
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Guide to dog breed clubs in the US

by Stacy Kaaki

Breed Clubs are organizations dedicated to the breeding and welfare of a specific breed. These clubs differ from kennel clubs in that kennel clubs are open to purebred dogs of any breed and are not b...More>
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Difference between a Labrador Retriever and Golden Retriever

by Angie Pollock

To the novice eye, the differences between a Labrador Retriever and a Golden Retriever may be difficult to identify. While there are some similarities in the two breeds, there are many differenc...More>
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Top 5 Most Popular Dog Breeds

The top 5 most popular dog breeds as listed by the AKC for 2009.

photo by Mark Spencer

Labrador Retriever

photo by

German Shepherd

photo by Jimmy Baikovicius

Yorkshire Terrier

photo by Francisco Vargas

Golden Retriever

photo by Rob

Beagle

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Quick Facts

*According to the AKC, the Labrador Retriever is the most popular dog breed in the US for 2009. The Lab is followed by the German Shepherd (#2) and the Yorkshire Terrier (#3). In 2008, the roles were reversed with the Yorkie being in the number two spot and the German Shepherd in third place.

*A study published in the Applied Animal Behaviour Science placed the Dachshund at the top of the list for the most aggressive dog breed towards both humans and other dogs.

*It is believed that dogs were first domesticated by cavemen during the Palaeolithic age.

*The oldest dog to ever live is recorded in the Guiness Book of World Records as an American dog named Butch that died in 2003 at the age of 28. However, a Sheepdog from Australia named Bluey was recorded to live until the age of 29.

Official Websites

With the hundreds of different dog breeds available throughout the world, finding good information is important. These important websites can help you get just the information you need on a particular dog breed.

American Kennel Club
The AKC provides information on all accepted dog breeds, the registration process, and different do shows in America.
United Kennel Club
The United Kennel Club provides information on registered dog breeds from all 50 states within the US and 25 foreign countries.
Westminster Kennel Club
The WKC website has information on dog shows (past and present), different dog breeds, and records and history information.
The Kennel Club
UK based kennel club founded in 1873.

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Sadie the Scottie Wins Westminster After Protest

A Scottish terrier is America's new top dog. Sadie the Scottie walked off with the title Tuesday night by winning best in show at the Westminster Kennel Club. (Feb. 16)

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